PilotvsAhtanum

Pilot (bittering) and Ahtanum (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Pilot

Bittering

Alpha acid

8–11.5%

Beta acid

3.3–5%

Total oil

0.8–1.5 mL

United Kingdom

Ahtanum

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.5–6.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

0.5–1.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Pilot

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Ahtanum

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Lemon

Only in Pilot

SpicyMarmalade

Only in Ahtanum

CitrusGrapefruitGeraniumPineEarthyFloralCedar

Property

PropertyPilotAhtanum
Alpha acid8–11.5%3.5–6.5%
Beta acid3.3–5%4–6.5%
Co-humulone28–37%30–35%
Total oil0.8–1.5 mL0.5–1.7 mL
Myrcene35–40%45–55%
Humulene3–6%15–22%
Caryophyllene-9–12%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

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